Dan’s Taste of Two Forks Countdown: William Bertha

Life is sweet for those of us looking for great baked goods—thanks to William Bertha. As the Master Patissier at Gurney’s Pasticceria and Beach Bakery in Montauk, Bertha blends traditional methods and his own unique vision in bringing to edible life a bounty of bakery creations both delicious and, when the mood strikes him, whimsical.

As he looks forward to joining other luminaries of the East Endfoot-and-wine scene at the first Dan’s Taste of Two Forks event, Bertha is most excited about “being outside with many people, the fresh air and the aroma of different cuisine.” Ah, the sweet smell of excess.

Click below for the full Q&A with William Bertha[expand]

Favorite Offering at Gurney’s Pasticceria and Beach Bakery… My Chocolate Truffle Cake is a favorite of mine, because it makes people really happy and satisfied—and trust me, they get a really good cake.

If you had two forks in your hands right now, what would you like to stick them in… Rib-Eye Steak, medium rare, and penne alla vodka with shrimp.

Food That Defines Summer on Long Island… Little neck clams on a half-shell.

The World Ends Tomorrow. Your Last Meal Would Be… Steak au Poivre with brandy sauce, baked potato and corn on the cob

What’s Great About Being Part of the Food-and-Drink Culture on the East End… The towns have a nice ambiance of their own, and if you travel all over you will find that we live here in a pretty unique part of the world.

A Word That Defines How You Feel About Food… Passionate and consistent.

Who’s Taught You the Most About Food and Cooking… Ron Fousek, my college pastry instructor.

Worst Kitchen Disaster Story… The sprinkler system went off and soaked everything in the bakery.

If You Didn’t Work in the World of Food, You’d Be… A downhill skier.

The Perfect Meal Is… The dinner that you want to come back for again.

When You Get to Foodie Heaven, the Guy at the Gate Will Say To You… Your Alaska has been baked!”

Dan’s Taste of Two Forks is Saturday, July 16, in Sayre Park in Bridgehampton, NY. For more info and to purchase tickets, click here.